Webster Aims to End Panthers’ Reign with Warriors Upset
Andrew Webster finds himself in one of the most fascinating storylines of this NRL finals series. The Warriors’ coach, who once helped architect Penrith’s attacking dominance, is now standing in the way of the Panthers’ bid for a fifth straight premiership. It’s a clash filled with history, mutual respect, and plenty of emotion.
Webster knows the Panthers inside and out. He played a major role in shaping their premiership runs in 2021 and 2022, before leaving in 2023 to take charge of the Warriors. Now, just two years later, he’s preparing to dismantle the very fortress he once helped build. The irony is not lost on him. When asked about Penrith, his admiration was clear—he called them a great team, but quickly added that every dynasty eventually falls. In his words, “One year they are going to lose… hopefully it is this week.”
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Across the field will be Ivan Cleary, a coach who not only respects Webster but also knows the unpredictability of the Warriors in finals footy. Cleary himself once wore the Warriors jersey and even guided the club during earlier years, so he is well aware of their ability to spring upsets when least expected.
The task, however, won’t be simple. The Panthers, who were written off earlier in the season after sitting last on the ladder after 12 rounds, stormed back into contention. Their resilience has been remarkable, and once again they look like genuine premiership contenders. On the other side, the Warriors began the year strong, sitting comfortably inside the top four for months. But injuries to key players like Mitch Barnett and Luke Metcalf derailed their rhythm, leaving them stumbling into the finals with seven losses from their last eleven games.
Still, Webster insists his team cannot be counted out. His message to players and fans alike is built on belief. He knows doubts are swirling outside, but inside the camp the conviction remains firm. “I know there is belief here,” he said. “From the top of the country to the bottom, everyone at Mt Smart will believe this weekend.” That sense of unity, he argues, could make the difference.
Players like Barnett echo that same confidence, pointing to the hardened mindset the team has developed through adversity. For them, finals footy is about grit—an 80-minute test of toughness and commitment—and they believe they’re ready to deliver it.
The stage is now set in Auckland. On one side, the Panthers chasing history. On the other, the Warriors with nothing to lose, hungry to knock over the reigning kings. For Webster, it’s more than just another final—it’s a chance to prove that the student can overcome the master, and that the dynasty he helped create may finally meet its match.
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